BEN Sartain believes Bowers & Pitsea have adjusted well to being in the Isthmian Premier League for the first time in the club’s history.

Bowers recorded a 3-1 victory over Merstham and have now clinched four victories in their last seven outings.

Although Rob Small’s side began the calendar year with a disappointing defeat to neighbours East Thurrock United, they have followed it up with four points from a possible six and Sartain feels Bowers have bounced back from the setback impressively.

“We were poor against East Thurrock, so it was important to move on quickly and pick up some positive results,” said the central midfielder.

“Our recent form has been pretty good.

“We have now taken 13 points from the last 18 on offer, which is a great achievement.

“At this level, you get tested every week, so you’ve got to be at it or you will get beaten.

“It has been challenging in the Isthmian Premier League for the first time, but we’re enjoying it.”

Bowers made the trip to Surrey to face Merstham on Tuesday night having claimed a 2-2 draw with Bishop’s Stortford at the weekend.

Small’s outfit, who romped home to the Isthmian North title last term, were pegged back twice by Bishop’s Stortford thanks to a brace of goals from veteran Jamie Cureton.

However, Bowers picked up their first triumph of 2020 as they beat Merstham.

And Sartain played a key role as his side bagged all three points.

After a goalless first half, the central midfielder broke the deadlock with 53 minutes on the clock.

Sartain twisted and turned his way into a promising position before sliding the ball into the top corner of the net.

Bowers doubled their lead 20 minutes later to give themselves some breathing space.

Lewis Manor flicked on goalkeeper Callum Chafer’s long clearance and found James Thomas.

Although Thomas was denied by Merstham custodian Matte Pierson, James Richmond headed the ball into the back of his own net.

And Joe Gardner made an instant impact after coming off the bench.

Just five minutes after replacing Manor, Gardner volleyed home his first goal for the club after being found by Sartain.

Although ex-East Thurrock United man Calvin Ekpiteta reduced Merstham’s deficit, Bowers claimed all three points and Sartain was overjoyed to play a key part.

“I was delighted to get on the scoresheet and to also assist the third goal,” added the 26-year-old, who counts Basildon United among his former clubs.

“It was a tough game, conditions were terrible and it was a tricky pitch. That made it fairly scrappy at times.

“But, overall, it was a great team performance and the main thing is that we got the three points.”